Rovinj is a stunningly beautiful coastal town in the heart of Istria, Croatia. Its charming old town streets, warm Mediterranean climate, and stunning scenery make it a perfect stop on your yacht charter itinerary.
A Brief History of Rovinj
The town’s history can be traced back to the prehistoric period when the Illyrian tribe inhabited it. Throughout the centuries, Rovinj was ruled by the Roman Empire, the Venetian Republic, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
In the Middle Ages, Rovinj flourished as a fishing and shipbuilding center. Its historic center still preserves the remains of its rich past.
Nowadays, Rovinj is a charming coastal town that has become a popular destination for tourists.
Places to See in Rovinj
- Old Town. The charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Rovinj’s Old Town are a must-see.
- St. Euphemia’s Basilica. This iconic landmark towers over Rovinj and offers breathtaking views from the top of its bell tower. Inside, marvel at the impressive Baroque architecture and ornate frescoes.
- Balbi’s Arch. This well-known Rovinj landmark marks the entrance to the Old Town. It is a great photo opportunity.
- Grisia Street. Known as the artist’s street, Grisia is lined with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local painters, sculptors, and designers.
- Punta Corrente Forest Park. Just a short walk from the town center, this expansive park offers hiking trails, beaches, and stunning coastline views.
- Batana Eco-museum. Learn about Rovinj’s rich fishing history at this unique museum housed in a traditional wooden boat called a batana.
- Monte Mulini Beach. One of Rovinj’s most beautiful beaches, Monte Mulini offers crystal clear water and a serene setting for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
Things to Do in Rovinj
Here are some activities you can enjoy while visiting this picturesque town:
- Hiking and Biking. Rovinj has several hiking and biking trails that will take you through olive groves, vineyards, and scenic forests.
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. With crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Rovinj is an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Some popular diving sites are the Cape of Porer and the Baron Gautsch shipwreck.
- Watersports. Rovinj is a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Kayak, stand-up paddleboard, windsurf, jetski, snorkel, swim. Scuba diving is also a popular activity in Rovinj.
- Cultural Activities. Rovinj has a rich cultural heritage that you can explore by visiting museums, galleries, and historic sites. Some of the cultural landmarks worth visiting include the Rovinj Heritage Museum, the Batana Eco-museum, and the Balbi Arch.
- Culinary Experiences. Istria is known for its gastronomy, and Rovinj is no exception. While in town, make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as truffles, olive oil, and seafood. You can take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Istrian dishes or visit one of the many wineries in the region and sample some of the best wines in Croatia.
Festivals and Events
Rovinj is known for its vibrant culture and colorful festivities, which take place throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals and events that you shouldn’t miss include:
- Rovinj Photo Days. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll love this annual festival showcasing contemporary photography. It’s a great opportunity to explore the city’s streets and alleys while admiring some truly stunning works of art.
- Grisia Art Exhibition. This is one of Europe’s oldest outdoor art exhibitions, featuring contemporary and modern artworks. Every August, the event draws artists worldwide to showcase their latest creations.
- Rovinj Night. This is a vibrant street festival that takes place every year in July. The event is a great opportunity to sample the local cuisine, listen to live music, and enjoy street performers while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
- Monte Mulini Jazz Festival. This is one of Croatia’s most popular jazz festivals, attracting musicians and jazz enthusiasts worldwide. The festival is held in July yearly and offers a fantastic lineup of performances in an open-air setting.
- Fishermen’s Night. This annual festival celebrates the city’s rich fishing traditions and takes place in August. You can sample freshly caught seafood, watch traditional fishing boats, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Gastronomy
Rovinj’s gastronomy combines rich Istrian traditions, fresh seafood, aromatic truffles, and exceptional local produce. Here’s a glimpse into the delightful world of Rovinj’s gastronomy:
- Istrian Truffles. The region’s forests are home to black and white truffles, which enhance specialties such as pasta, risotto, or truffle-infused cheeses.
- Seafood Delicacies. Given its coastal location, Rovinj boasts an abundance of fresh seafood. Dive into a culinary adventure with dishes like grilled squid, marinated anchovies, and octopus salad, prepared using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
- Olive Oil. Sample locally produced olive oils at dedicated tasting rooms or pair them with fresh bread at local restaurants to truly appreciate their unique characteristics.
- Istrian Ham. Sink your teeth into Istrian prosciutto, a renowned delicacy from locally bred pigs. The ham is carefully salted and air-dried, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Enjoy thin slices of Istrian prosciutto paired with aged cheese, olives, and a glass of Istrian wine for a true taste of the region.
Marinas in Rovinj
ACI Marina Rovinj
This popular marina offers 450 berths for yachts up to 35 meters long. It has many facilities, including showers, toilets, laundry, and free WiFi. ACI Marina Rovinj is located in the center of the town, so it is very convenient to access restaurants, bars, and shops.
Marina Valdibora
Marina Valdibora is located on the northern coast of the town. It has 160 berths for yachts up to 25 meters long. It offers all necessary services, such as water, electricity, showers, toilets, and laundry. A beautiful park surrounds this marina and offers stunning views of the Old Town.
Marina Punta Verudela
Marina Punta Verudela is in nearby Pula. It has 630 berths for boats up to 40 meters long and offers fuel, water, electricity, and WiFi. It is a modern marina surrounded by pine trees and is known for its excellent facilities and service.
Sample 8-Day Itinerary Including Rovinj
Here is an 8-day sample itinerary for a yacht charter that includes Rovinj, Croatia, as a stop.
Day 1 | Rovinj ACI Marina
Meet your captain and crew at the marina. Step aboard and tour your yacht, your luxurious home away from home for the next week.
After a brief safety meeting, we set sail for Brijuni.
Day 2 | Brijuni National Park
This enchanting park encompasses the islands of the Brijuni archipelago, comprised of two larger islands, Veli Brijuni, and Mali Brijun. The islands are adorned with lush greenery and surrounded by twelve smaller islets.
Spend the day hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. Late in the afternoon, cruise to the island of Korcula.
Day 3 | Korcula
Sail to the island of Korcula. There are many things to see and do here, including:
- Hiking or cycling
- Tasting craft beer at the local brewery
- You can sample local wines. Korcula is famous for its white wines, particularly Grk, Posip, and Rukatac.
- Or try delicious cuisine.
- Enjoy playing in the water with your yacht’s water toys.
- Or soaking up the sun on one of the gorgeous white pebble beaches.
- Watching a traditional sword dance called the Moreska.
- Then wander the streets of Korcula Old Town.
- Or explore the mystical caves at Kocje Nature Preserve.
Return to your yacht after a day of fun on Korcula Island. Have a hand-crafted cocktail on the deck as you watch the beautiful Croatian sunset.
Day 4 | Mljet
Sail to the island of Mljet.
Begin your day by visiting Mljet National Park, a pristine oasis comprising most of the island. Hike or bike the park’s picturesque trails.
Next, venture to the park’s heart to discover the enchanting Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake). Rent a kayak to explore the lakes leisurely.
Afterward, have lunch at one of the charming waterfront restaurants. Sample fresh seafood and sip on a glass of local wine, perfectly complementing the island’s laid-back vibe.
Day 5 | Hvar
Start the day with a visit to the imposing Hvar Fortress, perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Take a leisurely hike up the winding paths and steps to reach the fortress. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Hvar Town, the surrounding islands, and the sea.
Next, wander through the charming streets of Hvar Town. The town has historic buildings, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. Discover St. Stephen’s Square, the vibrant heart of the town, and the magnificent Hvar Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece.
In the afternoon, head to the beach. Snorkel, jet ski, paddleboard, and soak up the sun.
In the evening, experience Hvar’s vibrant nightlife. Visit one of the stylish beach clubs or rooftop bars, where you can dance to the beats of renowned DJs, sip on signature cocktails, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Day 6 | Brac
Sail to the island of Brac. Visit the iconic Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach to begin your day’s adventure. This mesmerizing stretch of shoreline is famous for its unique shape and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
In the afternoon, make your way to the picturesque town of Bol, nestled on the southern coast of Brac. Wander its charming streets, lined with traditional stone houses and cozy cafes. Visit the Dominican Monastery and explore its art gallery, which showcases local artists’ works.
Venture to the town of Supetar and visit the Vidova Gora viewpoint. Hike up to the island’s highest peak for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands.
End your day with a stroll along the harbor.
Day 7 | Cruise Back to Rovinj
Sail back to Rovinj. Stop along the way to swim, fish, and relax on the deck of your yacht.
Day 8 | Disembark in Rovij
Disembark your yacht and say goodbye to your Captain and crew.
Note that this is only a sample itinerary. We will work with you to customize it to fit your interests and desires. All itineraries are subject to change.
